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Contents
- The climate of Santa Elena
- The best time to visit Santa Elena
- The worst time to visit Santa Elena
- Spring weather in Santa Elena
- Summer weather in Santa Elena
- Autumn weather in Santa Elena
- Winter weather in Santa Elena
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Santa Elena
The town of Santa Elena in Costa Rica sits geographically in the Köppen climate classification of Aw, which designates a Tropical wet and dry or savanna climate. Displaying characteristics typical of its climate zone, Santa Elena experiences high temperatures year-round, accompanied by significant rainfall during certain periods.
Throughout the year, daytime temperatures hover from 28.4°C (83.1°F) to 32.8°C (91°F), while night-time temperatures range from 21.9°C (71.4°F) to 24.6°C (76.3°F). This indicates a relatively stable thermal pattern, with minor variations due to seasonal changes. On the other hand, the relative humidity fluctuates significantly, with the lowest average at 63% and reaching up to 83%.
In terms of precipitation, patterns are discernible throughout the year. Months with least rainfall, typically under 5mm (0.2"), span from February to April. Conversely, the highest rainfall is observed from May to November with rainfall peaking to an average of 330mm (12.99") in October. These wet months aside, Santa Elena maintains a generally hot and dry climate in adherence to its classified Köppen zone.
Throughout the year, daytime temperatures hover from 28.4°C (83.1°F) to 32.8°C (91°F), while night-time temperatures range from 21.9°C (71.4°F) to 24.6°C (76.3°F). This indicates a relatively stable thermal pattern, with minor variations due to seasonal changes. On the other hand, the relative humidity fluctuates significantly, with the lowest average at 63% and reaching up to 83%.
In terms of precipitation, patterns are discernible throughout the year. Months with least rainfall, typically under 5mm (0.2"), span from February to April. Conversely, the highest rainfall is observed from May to November with rainfall peaking to an average of 330mm (12.99") in October. These wet months aside, Santa Elena maintains a generally hot and dry climate in adherence to its classified Köppen zone.
The best time to visit Santa Elena
Given the town's tropical savanna climate, the ideal period to visit Santa Elena would be between December and April. During these months, rainfall levels remain notably low while sunshine hours peak to nearly 9.5 to 9.9 hours per day, fostering perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Despite the increased daylight hours, temperatures experienced at this period remain comfortable, with highs not exceeding 32.8°C (91°F), and lows staying above 21.9°C (71.4°F), fostering perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
The worst time to visit Santa Elena
The overly wet months of May to November demonstrate increased rainfall, reaching up to 330mm (12.99") in October, and a heightened relative humidity of around 81% to 83%. Whereas these conditions might appeal to lovers of rain and lush vegetation, the combination of high humidity and significant rainfall restricts outdoor activity, rendering this the least hospitable period to visit Santa Elena.
Spring weather in Santa Elena
Spring in Santa Elena witnesses a transition from dry to wet conditions. March experiences a relative humidity of 63%, low rainfall of 5mm (0.2"), and daytime temperatures around 32.8°C (91°F). By May, rainfall levels spike to about 175mm (6.89") while humidity increases to 75%. Despite these changes, temperatures remain stable with highs not surpassing 30.7°C (87.3°F), though an increase in cloud cover is perceptible.
Summer weather in Santa Elena
The summer months of June to August in Santa Elena are characterized by high levels of rainfall, 195mm (7.68") in June and rising till 213mm (8.39") in August. During this period, daytime temperatures vary slightly from 29.3°C (84.7°F) to 29.4°C (84.9°F) while night-time temperatures range from 24°C (75.2°F) to 23.4°C (74.1°F). The relative humidity peaks at 81% while cloud cover increases, setting a distinctly wet and humid season.
Autumn weather in Santa Elena
Autumn in Santa Elena is marked by the continued trend of high humidity and rainfall. From September to November, rainfall ranges from 193mm (7.6") to 98mm (3.86") with relative humidity constantly above 81%. Cloud cover persists and further reduces the average daylight hours. However, temperature variations remain minimal, retaining the year-long tropical warmth.
Winter weather in Santa Elena
Winter sees Santa Elena emerging from the high rainfall, high humidity pattern of the previous months. Gradually, from December to February, rainfall reduces from 19mm (0.75") to 3mm (0.12"). The transition to this drier period is accompanied by reduced cloud cover, an increase in sunshine hours from 8 to 8.9 hours, and a drop in relative humidity, down to 68% by February. Throughout this period, temperatures continue their stable range of high 20s to low 30°C (86°F), reflecting the consistent tropical climate.
Weather in January
Santa Elena's first month of the year, January, often enjoys fresh breezes and pleasant sunny spells. With the highest temperature peaking at 30.8°C (87.4°F), there is a temperate and comfortable sensation in the air. The month is followed by February which is very much similar in its climatic characteristics, yet February brings just a small increase in temperatures. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Characteristic weather patterns seen in January spill over into February, providing a sense of continuity. The highest and lowest temperatures see a slight ascend, touching 32°C (89.6°F) and 22.5°C (72.5°F) respectively. The weather of Santa Elena in February leans towards comfort, richness with ample sunlight hours and satisfactory visibility. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March experiences similar weather events as observed in February, with only minor changes in the metrics. The maximum temperature sees a small rise to 32.8°C (91°F) while maintaining a relatively lower level of humidity at 63%. Weather in March »
Weather in April
With a spring in its step, April jolts from the stable weather conditions of the first quarter to the noticeable sudden showers. This month records an average rainfall of 36mm (1.42"), a notable peak from the previous month. Following April, May goes one further and enters a phase of heavy rainfall. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May in Santa Elena signals a sharp turn in the climate, defined by heavy showers and a definite humidity. The rainfall escalates to a massive 175mm (6.89"), showcasing the clear presence of the wet season. The city receives a significantly higher rainfall than the preceding month, and yet the volume continues to rise in the subsequent month of June. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June pushes on the momentum gained by May and amplifies the intensity of the rainy season in Santa Elena. The rainfall is at its peak at 195mm (7.68"), highest in all months of the year. July relieves some of this intensity with a marginal drop in rainfall. Weather in June »
Weather in July
While July maintains the rhythm of the rainy season in Santa Elena, there is a slight drop in rainfall volume to 185mm (7.28"). This trend is consistent until it reaches a yearly peak in the month of October. Despite the continuous downpour, Santa Elena champions a high amount of daylight hours and a warm temperature range, presenting a fascinating combination. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August finds itself at the crossroads between the peak and the end of the wet season. With a slight increase in rainfall to 213mm (8.39") compared to the previous month, August fully embraces the monsoon feel. Moving into September, rainfall reduces slightly, marking the beginning of an end to the wet season. Weather in August »
Weather in September
In September, Santa Elena's storied rainy season commences its eventual conclusion. There's a slight reduction to 193mm (7.6") in rainfall from the downpour from the previous month and it further decreases as the city transitions into October. Weather in September »
Weather in October
Moving into October, the city of Santa Elena witnesses the peak of rainfall for the year, with an impressive 330mm (12.99") recorded. It serves as the conclusion of the months-long rainy season with rainfall volumes tapering off in the following months. Weather in October »
Weather in November
In the city of Santa Elena, November serves as a smooth transition from a wet climate to a drier one. There is a significant drop in rainfall to 98mm (3.86") from October and it further dips moving into December. Despite the decrease in showers, the weather continues to be characterized by high relative humidity and moderate temperature ranges. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Rounding off the year, December in Santa Elena brings along considerable changes in the city's climate. With the lowest rainfall of the year recorded at 19mm (0.75"), the city moves away from its rainy season, welcoming the dry season. Weather in December »
[Resources]Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain in Santa Elena?
Throughout the year, there are 218.6 rainfall days, and 1456mm (57.32") of precipitation is accumulated.
When is the highest UV index in Santa Elena?
January through September and December, with an average maximum UV index of 7, are months with the highest UV index in Santa Elena.
What is the driest month in Santa Elena?
February is the month with the least rainfall in Santa Elena, Costa Rica. Rain falls for 3.1 days and accumulates 3mm (0.12") of precipitation.
What part of the year is the hottest in Santa Elena?
March is the month when Santa Elena's temperatures reach their peak, with averages of 32.8°C (91°F) and lows of 23°C (73.4°F).
What is the least humid month in Santa Elena?
With an average relative humidity of 63%, March is the least humid month.
What month has the most sunshine in Santa Elena?
March has the most sunshine of the year in Santa Elena, Costa Rica, with an average of 9.9h of sunshine.
When are the longest days in Santa Elena?
The month with the longest days in Santa Elena, Costa Rica, is June, with an average of 12h and 42min of daylight.
What time of the year is the coldest in Santa Elena?
During the coldest month in Santa Elena, October, temperatures average a high of 28.4°C (83.1°F) and a low of 23.3°C (73.9°F).
What is the most humid month in Santa Elena?
The most humid month is October, with an average relative humidity of 83%.
What is the rainiest month in Santa Elena?
October is the month with the most rainfall in Santa Elena, Costa Rica. Rain falls for 27.4 days and accumulates 330mm (12.99") of precipitation.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Santa Elena?
With an average of 8h of sunshine, October has the least sunshine of the year in Santa Elena, Costa Rica.
What is the month with the lowest UV index in Santa Elena?
The months with the lowest UV index in Santa Elena, Costa Rica, are October and November, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the month with the shortest days in Santa Elena?
The month with the shortest days in Santa Elena, Costa Rica, is December, with an average of 11h and 30min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Santa Elena?
Santa Elena, Costa Rica, does not utilize Daylight Saving Time (DST). CST timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is March (32.8°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is October (28.4°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is May (24.6°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (21.9°C).
Average pressure
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
- Average pressure in January:
1011.5mbar - Average pressure in February:
1011.2mbar - Average pressure in March:
1011.2mbar - Average pressure in April:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in May:
1010.7mbar - Average pressure in June:
1010.7mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1010.9mbar - Average pressure in August:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in September:
1010.8mbar - Average pressure in October:
1010.5mbar - Average pressure in November:
1010.6mbar - Average pressure in December:
1011mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (1011.5mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is October (1010.5mbar).
Average wind speed
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
- Average wind speed in January:
10.7km/h - Average wind speed in February:
11.1km/h - Average wind speed in March:
10.2km/h - Average wind speed in April:
7.9km/h - Average wind speed in May:
6.5km/h - Average wind speed in June:
5.8km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
6.2km/h - Average wind speed in August:
5.8km/h - Average wind speed in September:
5.5km/h - Average wind speed in October:
5.9km/h - Average wind speed in November:
7.1km/h - Average wind speed in December:
8.8km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is February (11.1km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (5.5km/h).
Average humidity
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
The month with the highest relative humidity is October (83%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is March (63%).
Average rainfall
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (330mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is February (3mm).
Average rainfall days
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
- Average rainfall days in January:
3.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
3.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
4.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
25.3 days - Average rainfall days in June:
26.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
26.3 days - Average rainfall days in August:
26.4 days - Average rainfall days in September:
27.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
27.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
22.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10.8 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is September (27.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (3.1 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
- Average daylight in January:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in February:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 4min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 5min - Average daylight in November:
11h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
11h and 3min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 42min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 11h and 30min).
- Average sunshine in January:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in April:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 5min - Average sunshine in August:
8h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 0min - Average sunshine in November:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in December:
9h and 4min
The month with the most sunshine is March (Average sunshine: 9h and 54min).
The month with the least sunshine is October (Average sunshine: 8h and 0min).
Average sunshine days
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
- Average sunshine days in January:
25.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
24.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
25.3 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.4 days - Average sunshine days in May:
5.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
2.5 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
4 days - Average sunshine days in August:
3.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
1.4 days - Average sunshine days in October:
2.7 days - Average sunshine days in November:
6.2 days - Average sunshine days in December:
18.2 days
The month with the most sunshine days is January (25.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is September (1.4 days).
Average UV index
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
The months with the highest UV index are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September and December (UV index 7).
The months with the lowest UV index are October and November (UV index 6).
Average cloud cover
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
The month with the most cloud cover is October (Cloud cover 46).
The month with the least cloud cover is February (Cloud cover 10).
Average visibility
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April and December (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are May, June, July, August, September, October and November (9km).
Santa Elena, Costa Rica
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